New Year’s Eve is a time for reflection, celebration, and gathering with loved ones, and for many Italians, it wouldn’t be complete without the vibrant array of television programming to accompany the festivities.
This year, the Italian television schedule for December 31st features not one, but two major live events, offered by Rai 1 and Canale 5, promising music, entertainment, and unforgettable performances to ring in the new year.
On Rai 1, the traditional event titled L'anno che verrà will be hosted by Marco Liorni. Broadcasting live from the picturesque waterfront of Reggio Calabria starting at 9 PM, the show will showcase numerous musical acts. Viewers can expect performances by famous Italian artists like the iconic Ricchi e Poveri, the versatile Anna Oxa, pop sensation Diodato, and many more, including Arisa, J-Ax, and Cristiano Malgioglio. They will be accompanied by a big band led by Maestro Stefano Palatresi, who will perform timeless hits throughout the evening.
Meanwhile, from the evocative Piazza Duomo in Catania, Canale 5 promises its star-studded program, Capodanno in musica, hosted by Federica Panicucci and Fabio Rovazzi. The event is timed to kick off just after the President of Italy delivers their New Year’s address, ensuring viewers are treated to the best entertainment as midnight approaches. The stage will see amazing performances from artists beloved by various age groups, including Alberto Urso, Baby K, and veterans like Umberto Tozzi and Paola e Chiara. Notably, fans of talent shows will also delight to see many performers from the popular program Amici take the stage, adding to the excitement of the night. Special guest Gigi D'Alessio is expected to make his presence felt during this celebratory concert.
For those less inclined to dance the night away, there’s plenty of family-friendly programming lined up. Rai 2 will air the classic Disney movie Gli Aristogatti for the younger viewers at 9:20 PM, and Rai 3 offers the comedic classic Il piccolo diavolo featuring Roberto Benigni. Meanwhile, Italia 1 will feature the blockbuster Independence Day starring Will Smith, offering something for everyone.
Also included is adventurous programming on the Nove channel. It will feature Tutti cantano i Queen, which presents two iconic concerts from the legendary band Queen. These concerts, Queen Live At Wembley Stadium from 1986 and the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert from 1992, will be presented with lyrics visible on-screen, transforming them almost akin to a karaoke experience for eager fans.
Among the performers for the night, Cioffi, the rising star known for his viral hits on social media, will also take the stage as part of Capodanno in musica. Cioffi recently discussed his artistic ambitions and the importance of staying connected with one’s inner child—a sentiment he believes helps him maintain positivity, stating, “Ognuno di noi deve mantenere il contatto con il proprio bambino interiore, perché questo ci permette di vedere la vita sempre a colori.” (Everyone must maintain contact with their inner child, for this allows us to see life always in color).
These extravagant broadcasts form part of Italy's unique cultural fabric, bringing together families as they celebrate the arrival of another year. The mix of music, comedy, and cinematic classics ensures no one is left out of the celebrations, and for Italians, gathering around the television to enjoy these shows has become as much of a tradition as the festivities themselves.
Through live performances, cherished films, and heartfelt messages from some of Italy's most cherished characters, the new year will be ushered in with joy, laughter, and hope, inviting the entire nation to revel in this collective moment of delight.